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Febuary 2, 2012
Washington County Inmates claim of rape refuted.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators have charged; Joshua Ellis Crabtree, age 21, an inmate of the Washington County Detention Center since April 2011 on various misdemeanor charges; with Filing a False Police Report. This charge was placed on Crabtree following an investigation into an allegation by Crabtree that he was raped by another inmate on January 26th. At the time of the allegation, Crabtree was transported to the Johnson City Medical Center where a rape kit was completed.
After Investigators interviewed Crabtree he confessed that he had fabricated the story in an attempt to be housed in a different part of the Detention Center.
Crabtree is charged with filing a false police report which is a class D felony.
Crabtree is being held in the Washington County Detention Center under a $5,000 bond.
An arraignment is scheduled in Washington County Sessions Court on Friday February 03, 2012
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January 20, 2012
2 Washington County Men charged with Felony Sex crimes against minors in 2 separate incidents.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators arrested Michael D. Pike, 56, 2203 Mckinley Rd on Thursday after an investigation into complaints of an inappropriate relationship with a minor, who was being transported to and from counseling by Pike, were confirmed. Pike was working for Net Trans at the time of the incidents. Pike was charged with 4 counts of Aggravated Statutory Rape. His bond was set at $100,000. He was arraigned today in session’s court. Pike is currently held in the Washington County Detention Center.
On Wednesday Investigators arrested Mars A. Lockwood, age 47, 115 Clarks Creek Road; for 2 counts of Soliciting Sexual Exploitation of a minor and 3 counts of Solicitation of a Minor- Aggravated Statutory Rape. This arrest was a result of an investigation into complaints of inappropriate relationship between Lockwood and 2 minors which involved instructing the 2 minors in how to perform sex acts on one another while he watched. Lockwood was arraigned on Thursday the 19th in sessions. He is currently being held at the Washington County Detention Center under $200,000 bond.
 
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January 3, 2012
Washington County Sheriff’s Office has released a photo of the Officer involved in Monday’s crash.
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January 2, 2012
A Washington County Sheriff’s Deputy was injured earlier today during a vehicle pursuit.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Deputies responded to 310 Sand Valley Road, Jonesborough in reference to an armed robbery at approximately 11:00 a.m.
Sergeant Lee Cross began pursuit of the suspected vehicle. During the pursuit, Officer Gary Daugherty, age 46, was struck by the fleeing vehicle while attempting to deploy stop sticks near the intersection of Charlie Hoss Road and State Route 81 South.
Officer Daugherty was transported to JCMC and is currently in surgery for the injuries sustained on the scene.
The suspect’s vehicle was found crashed a short time later. Three occupants were apprehended after fleeing on foot and were taken into custody at the Washington County Detention Center. Charges are as follows:
Dalvin Jashauntelynn Stephens, Black Male, Age 18, 1726 Dave Buck Road, Johnson City, TN is charged with Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Robbery, Felony Evading Arrest, Failure to Yield, Driving on a suspended license, Leaving the scene of accident w/injuries, Reckless Endangerment x3. Bond has been set at $193,750.
Reginald Dewayne Smith, Black Male, Age 41, 1419 Colony Park, Johnson City, TN is charged with Robbery, Evading Arrest, Leaving the scene of accident w/ injuries. Bond has been set at $62,000.
Ashley Nichole McGraw, White Female, Age 18, 127 Forest Hill Drive, Johnson City, TN is charged with Robbery, Evading Arrest, Leaving the scene of accident w/injuries. Bond has been set at $62,000.
Arraignments will be held Tuesday, January 3, 2012, at 9:00 a.m. at General Sessions Court in Jonesborough. The investigation is ongoing with additional charges pending.
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December 21, 2011
4 year child found in a ditch at 2:20am, Parent located and arrested
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, A child 4 years of age was found on a bridge on east Main Street in Jonesborough, TN. The child was clothed, wearing shoes, jacket, blanket and an Elmo doll.
Washington County Sheriff Deputies and Jonesborough Public Safety Officers conducted a door to door search in an attempt to locate the child’s parents and residence. Jonesborough Officers were conducting a roadblock showing motorists a picture of the child when a neighbor passing by identified her and advised of the location for the residence.
At 9:45am contact was made with the child’s mother and her fiancé at 128 Sycamore Drive, Jeannae Raley age 34 and William Lollar age 44 were taken into custody and transported to the Washington County Detention Center.
Ms. Raley and Mr. Lollar are charged with Aggravated Child Abuse, Neglect, and Endangerment. They are to appear in Washington County General Sessions Court on Thursday December 22, 2011 at 9am. Both parties are being held on a $50,000 bond each.
 
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December 19, 2011
Holiday Traffic Enforcement
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The holiday season between Thanksgiving and New Years is one of the deadliest and most dangerous times of the year to be on the roadways. This is due to an increase in drunk, impaired or distracted drivers.”
Today, Sheriff Ed Graybeal announces that the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will “step-up” traffic enforcement efforts by implementing the use of saturation patrols throughout Washington County, TN to target impaired drivers, those who exceed the speed limit or drive aggressively and recklessly, seatbelt and / or child passenger safety violations and other traffic related offenses.
According to Sheriff Graybeal, “This time of year, we see an increase in motor vehicle traffic throughout our region. The holiday season is a very special time. It is a time to be with your families and loved ones. It is an opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas and look forward to a wonderful and prosperous New Year. This is why we are increasing our commitment to our citizens to keep our roadways safer, thus allowing them a better opportunity to enjoy the holiday season. We are asking motorists to take a few moments and “just slow down.” It’s better to lose a minute of your life, than to lose your life in a minute.”
The saturation patrols will begin Tuesday, December 20, 2011 and conclude on January 2, 2012. The saturation patrols will be conducted periodically throughout the County, especially in areas where traffic related complaints have been received.
For more information on the enforcement efforts or if you have a traffic related question, please contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at (423) 788-1414.
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November 23, 2011
Former Greeneville Pastor arrested following investigation into solicitation of a minor.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, on November 18, 2011, juveniles’ parents filed a report concerning their children. The victim alleged there had been inappropriate messaging via FaceBook and Cellular Telephone text messages by Roger Glenn Ball, age 42, of 350 Hillcrest Street, Greeneville Tennessee.
Washington County Sheriff’s Investigators interviewed Ball, which subsequently led to a confession.
Ball was the Pastor of the Greenhill Baptist Church in Greeneville and resigned after the allegations of inappropriate conduct concerning the children were made. Ball was formally a teacher / coach of “TEACH” Tennessee Co-op Home School Support Group in the Tri-cities area.
Ball was arrested and charged with two counts of solicitation of a minor.
Ball is being held at the Washington County Detention Center under a $20,000 bond. Ball is scheduled for arraignment on November 28, 2011 at 9:00am in the Washington County General Sessions Court.
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November 22, 2011
Gray man arrested following investigation into child sex abuse involving an eleven year old child.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, On October 11, 2011 the victim’s parents filed a report concerning their child. The victim alleged there had been inappropriate touching while in the care of Scott Douglas Craig, age 49, on October 10, 2011.
During a forensic interview at the Children’s Advocacy Center, the child disclosed of two incidents of sexual abuse and named Mr. Craig as the perpetrator. Mr. Craig was interviewed by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Investigators. The case was presented to the Washington County Grand Jury with a True Bill being returned for two counts of Aggravated Sexual Battery. A presentment was issued for Mr. Craig, and he has relinquished himself to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Mr. Craig is being held at the Washington County Detention Center under a $25,000 bond. Mr. Craig’s arraignment is scheduled for the next term of Washington County Criminal Court.
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November 18, 2011
Jonesborough man arrested following investigation into Introduction of Contraband into Washington County Detention Center.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators arrested Dustin L Scott; age 23; 732 Mill Springs Rd, following an investigation into contraband which was being introduced into the Washington County Detention Center, in July of this year, by an employee.
Scott who was an employee at that time was caught on video and audio accepting contraband from an inmate’s spouse admitted that he had accepted a deal which would pay him $1000 cash to bring items into the secure facility. When confronted by Investigators in July, Scott admitted that he had brought contraband into the facility on previous occasions.
Scott’s case was presented to the Washington County Grand Jury in early November, and a presentment for his arrest was issued shortly thereafter.
Scott was being held at the Washington County Detention Center under $10,000 bond. Scott’s arraignment is scheduled for the next term of Washington County Criminal Court.
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November 18, 2011
Jonesborough man arrested following Investigation into Torturous death of “Man’s Best Friend”.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators arrested Dustin Ricky Harrell, age 21, 1178 Old Stage Road, Jonesborough following an investigation into the killing of a family pet dog named “Honey”. Harrell admitted that he had thrown the dog down stairs repeatedly, held it under water, placed the dog in the clothes dryer and cycled the dryer for approximately 4 minutes. The dog’s leg was broken during the torture causing it to cry for help. The dog’s mouth was taped shut to prevent it from crying out further.
Harrell was charged with Aggravated Cruelty to an Animal. He is currently being held in the Washington County Detention Center under a $10,000 bond. His arraignment will be held November 21, 2011 at 0900 in General Sessions Court.
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November 10, 2011
Washington County Methamphetamine Cook closed down in Gray
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According to Sheriff Ed. Graybeal, Washington County Officers arrested Scotty R. Frye, age 41 of 182 Cedar Creek Drive lot 2 Gray, TN charging him with Violation of Probation, Promotion of Methamphetamine Manufacture, Possession of Methamphetamine for Resale, Possession of Schedule VI, Possession of Schedule IV and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
This situation began when Washington County Deputies and Investigators with the Criminal Investigation Division went to 182 Cedar Creek Drive lot 2 Gray Tennessee to serve a violation of probation on Scotty R. Frye, after receiving information he was staying at the residence. Mr. Frye attempted to evade Deputies but was arrested. After securing Frye Investigators located several precursors used to Manufacture Methamphetamine, approximately 10-15 grams of Methamphetamine that was packaged for resale, an small amount of Marijuana, Illegally Diverted Prescription Medication, digital scales and approximately 8-10 one pot containers used to manufacture Methamphetamines inside the residence. Some bottles were in a hibernation stage requiring minor changes to be reactivated for use. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Second Judicial Drug Task Force and the Tennessee Methamphetamine Task Force assisted with the Investigation and disposal of the Methamphetamine lab. Frye was decontaminated of any dangerous chemicals before being transported to the Washington County Detention Center. The residence remains under Quarantine until the property is Safe for Human Use again.
Frye is being held in the Washington County Detention Center without bond and is scheduled for arraignment in Washington County Sessions Court on November 14, 2011 at 9:00am.
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September 9, 2011
Telford Woman Charged with Violation of Sexual Offender Law.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators arrested Pamela Ann Saltz, 58 of 117 Humphries Drive Telford after an investigation revealed she was found to be in violation of Tennessee’s Sexual Offender Law.
Investigators acting on an anonymous tip responded to the defendants residence where they observed various children’s toys scattered about the yard. Upon contact with the defendant it was found that four children all under the age of twelve, which were nonrelated to the defendant, were living in the residence. The defendant is listed as a Violent Sex Offender which prohibits her from having minor children in the home.
Ms. Saltz is charged with four counts of Violation of the Tennessee Sexual Offender Law and is being held in the Washington County Detention Center under a $40,000.00 bond.
Ms. Saltz is scheduled for her arraignment September 9, 2011 at 1:00pm
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August 11, 2011
Interstate trio charged for Violation of Sexual Offender Registry Laws.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators have arrested 3 Gray residents after an investigation revealed all 3 were in violation of Tennessee’s Sexual Offender Registry laws.
Charged in the investigation were:
Michael A Krauter; age 43; 1911 Honaker Court; Gray, TN. Krauter was charged with 5 counts of Violation of the Sexual Offender Registry. Krauters bond was set at $50,000. He was arraigned on the morning of the 10th of August.
Mark Krauter; age 43; same address. Mark Krauter was charged with 2 counts of Violation of Sexual Offender Registry, and 1 count of Facilitating the Commission to commit Violation of the Tennessee Sexual Offender Registry. His bond was set at $30,000
He will be arraigned on the 11th of August.
Anna Krauter; age 35; same address. Anna Krauter was charged with Facilitating the Commission to commit Violation of the Tennessee Sexual Offender Registry. Her bond was set at $10,000. She will be arraigned on the 11th of August.
The male Krauters have recent ties to the states of Illinois and Wisconsin.
 
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August 8, 2011
Indoor/ Outdoor Marijuana Grower harvested prior to crop.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Officers have arrested Roy W Royal, age 53, 1387 Highway 107 following an investigation into stolen vehicles and drugs.
Deputies received information that a vehicle stolen from an Elizabethton Auto Sales lot was on Royals’ property. Officers also received information in regards to the reported auto thief also being on Royals’ property.
When Deputies responded to the residence to search for the stolen vehicle they located Marijuana plants growing in plain view in the back yard of the home and found the stolen vehicle stuck in a wooded area behind the home.
Investigators were called in to assist with a thorough search of the area surrounding the home and the home itself. Inside the home deputies located a basic indoor marijuana grow complete with grow lights, ballasts, chemicals, timers, etc.
Royal’s history includes Felony convictions which prevent him from legally owning Firearms and ammunition. During the search a large amount of ammunition was located inside the home.
75 marijuana plants were removed from the property including plants being grown inside and outside the home. Investigators also recovered approximately ¼ pound of processed marijuana, and digital scales. The street value of the drugs would be approximately $75,000.
Royal was charged with Possession of Stolen Property, Manufacture of Schedule VI, Possession of Schedule VI for Resale and Maintaining a Dwelling Where Controlled Substances are Used and Sold.
Royal’s bond was set at $25,000. Royal will be arraigned this morning at 0900.
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August 8, 2011
TRAFFIC REMINDER: The Washington County Sheriff’s Office unveils traffic reminders for the opening of Washington County Schools on Tuesday, August 9, 2011.
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Today, Sheriff Ed Graybeal announces that his department is ready for the increase in traffic around county schools as they open on August 9, 2011. According to Sheriff Graybeal, “We have had a safe summer on the roadways throughout Washington County. Our serious injury crashes and fatalities are down from this time last year. We would like to take this opportunity to remind everyone that schools will open this coming Tuesday and we will step up our enforcement efforts, especially in the school zones. We will be monitoring the traffic flow, watching for those that speed and drive recklessly in the school zones, as well as occupant protection safety issues.”
A cooperative effort between the Sheriff’s Office and the Washington County Department of Education Pupil Transport Division will be targeting those motorists that pass stopped school buses or otherwise operate their vehicles in a manner that may endanger the driver and passengers on the school buses.
Sheriff Graybeal added, “We have worked well with the School System on a variety of safety issues. If a school bus driver observes any situation that may endanger a student on that particular bus, they will alert our agency and we will take the appropriate enforcement action. We want our students to feel safe during their educational experience and this includes time at school as well as the time they spend on the school bus.”
County schools will be on an abbreviated schedule on Tuesday and will resume their regular schedule beginning on August 10, 2011.
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July 21, 2011
Hydroponic indoor Marijuana grow shut down in Washington County.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Investigators working with the 1st Judicial Drug Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms on a 2 week investigation have shut down an extensive indoor Hydroponic Marijuana grow lab. A Search Warrant was executed without incident at 2419 Melborne Drive in Johnson City.
A search of the residence uncovered the sophisticated grow lab that had 30 Marijuana plants in various states of growth. The suspect stated he would net three to four grows a year that would net approximately $142,000.00 per grow with the total sum being just under a half of a million dollars per year.
Investigators are conferring with the United States Attorney General’s Office for possible Federal Charges.
The Investigation is ongoing and the case will be presented to the next session of the Washington County Grand Jury.
The suspects name is being withheld pending possible charges with the Federal Grand Jury.
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July 19, 2011
Traffic stop leads to multiple charges on 3 Greene County men.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Deputy’s conducted a traffic stop on Grassy Valley Road at 7:50am. The vehicle was occupied by 3 men and contained a variety of items that were later found to be stolen from various locations in Washington County and Johnson City. Investigators with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division responded to the scene and notified the Johnson City Police Department who dispatched an Investigator. A joint investigation was conducted which resulted in three auto burglaries being solved from the early a.m. of this date. The Johnson City Police Department netted numerous charges as well on the three individuals.
Marshall C. Buell, 18 of 1105 Welcome Grove Road, Moshiem TN is charged with Reckless Driving, Driving on a Revoked License, Possession of a Prohibited Weapon and three counts of Auto-Burglary. Mr. Buell’s bond is set at $33,000.00
Tyler D. Bolton, 18 of 70 Champion Circle, Greeneville, TN is charged with Possession of Schedule VI, Possession of Schedule III, Possession of a Prohibited Weapon and three counts of Auto-Burglary. Mr. Bolton’s bond is set at $33,000.00
Christopher W. Jennings, 21 of 2900 Middle Creek Road Afton, TN is charged with three counts of Auto-Burglary. Mr. Jennings bond is set at $30,000.00
All three men are being held in the Washington County Detention Center with a Court date on 07/20/2011 at 9:00am in Washington County Sessions Court.
The Investigation is continuing with more charges pending.
 
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June 24, 2011
Burglary of Gray United Methodist Church leaves five people charged in connection of the crime.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County officers received a report of a Burglary at the Gray United Methodist Church, 2108 Oak Street Gray, TN.
One Juvenile was charged with Burglary and two others were charged with Possession of Stolen Property.
Thomas Andrew Rafalowski, age 18 of 144 Hillside Road Gray, Tn. is charged with Possession of Stolen Property and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
Ryan Benjamin Lopez, age 18 of 1810 Oak Grove Village Gray, TN. is charged with Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.
A Patrol Officer with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office responded to the church as well as Investigator’s with the Criminal Investigation Division. Shortly after the crime scene was processed the responding officer received information concerning the Burglary. Acting on the information Investigators were able to locate five people that were charged in connection with the Burglary. Two being adults and three being juveniles.
The five people charged all admitted the acts committed were to obtain monies to purchase herbal incense known by a long list of brand names including Dance with the devil, Purple Urple, Hydro, ect. Dubious chemists answered the banning of K2 another similar herbal mixture by creating new products that contain different ingredients not yet banned by Tennessee law. The herbal mixture is sprayed with chemicals that are similar to the THC found in marijuana, but research shows its 4 to5 times more potent. It’s unknown what all the side effects of the chemicals do to a person’s health for them to obtain an approximate ten minute marijuana type high.
Since the drug is not federally regulated, it dodges traditional drug tests. Drug tests are being developed and should be available as early as September 2011.
The three juveniles were served with Juvenile Petitions to appear in Juvenile Court.
Thomas Andrew Rafalowski was arrested and being held in the Washington County Detention Center under a $6,000.00 bond with a Court date of June 28, 2011 at 1:30pm
Ryan Benjamin Lopez was arrested and being held in the Washington County Detention Center under a $1,000.00 bond with a Court date of July 19, 2011 at 9:00am
 
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June 9, 2011
D.A.R.E. Celebration Rescheduled for 2011 D.A.R.E. Graduates!
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Attention 2011 D.A.R.E. Graduates!
The First Annual D.A.R.E. Celebration at Wetlands Water Park was held on, May 26, 2011
As a result of the severe storms that cut short the celebration, Wetlands Water Park has agreed to allow this year's fifth grade D.A.R.E graduates free admission to the park on July 16th, 2011 from 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Students must wear their D.A.R.E. T-shirt for admission. Normal admission rates will apply to those accompying the student.
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June 3, 2011
Two arrested after an overnight standoff.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Deputy’s received information on the location of two fugitives from Bristol, Va. at a local hotel last night at approximately 11:00 p.m.
Deputies along with the Johnson City Police Department and the U.S. Marshalls Service responded at which time both suspects barricaded themselves inside a room at the Motel 6, 207 East Mount Castle Drive, Johnson City.
Both the Washington County and the Johnson City S.W.AT. Teams made entry into the room with assistance from the Johnson City Fire Department, JCPD Bomb Squad, Washington County EMS, Drug Enforcement Agency.
Taken into custody was, Shawn W. Sykes, black male, age 41 of 13 Fuller Street Bristol Va. along with Robin L. Sykes, white female, age 43 of the same address.
Sykes has been charged with being a fugitive from justice, resisting arrest, felony vandalism, attempted arson, reckless endangerment, manufactor of methamphetamine, simple possession, civil disorder. Sykes is being held on a $103.000 bond.
Robin Sykes has been charged with being a fugitive from justice, and resisting arrest, she is in jail on a $51.000 bond. Arraignments for both have been scheduled for Monday, June 6 at 9am.
 
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May 25, 2011
“Kick-Off” for the summer traffic enforcement
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With many area schools out for summer vacations and the Memorial Day weekend just around the corner, higher than normal volumes of traffic are expected throughout our region. With the fuel prices on the rise, it is anticipated that many of our residents will be traveling locally and enjoying what our beautiful area has to offer.
Today, Sheriff Ed Graybeal announces that in conjunction with the Tennessee Governor’s Highway Safety Office and the many law enforcement agencies in Northeast Tennessee as well as our counterparts in Southwest Virginia, Southeast Kentucky and Western North Carolina the “kick-off” for the summer traffic enforcement initiatives will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2011 at 11:00 a.m. at the Tennessee Highway Patrol, District Five Office, 184 Joe McCrary Road, Fall Branch, Tennessee 37656. (Interstate 81, Exit #50).
According to Sheriff Graybeal, “As you are aware, our region has been very proactive in our approaches to highway traffic safety. With the success of the Click It or Ticket, 100 Days of Summer Heat, Buckle Up in Your Truck and the Hands Across the Border programs, hundreds of lives have been saved on our area roadways. With similar programs in Virginia, Kentucky and North Carolina, our entire region is committed to making “every ride a safe ride”.
Scheduled to be present at the event are representatives from the Tennessee Governor’s Highway Safety Office, representatives from the Tennessee Department of Safety, local Sheriff’s and Chief’s and our law enforcement partners from Virginia, Kentucky and North Carolina.
Sheriff Graybeal added, “Regular seatbelt usage is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities. When worn correctly, seatbelts have proven to reduce the risk of fatal injuries to front-seat passengers by 45% and by 60% in pick-up trucks, SUV’s and mini-vans. It will be our focus this year to make sure drivers and passengers are wearing their seatbelts. We will pay particular attention to children that are required to be in a child passenger safety seats. We will assist parents and caregivers in making sure those children are in them safely and correctly, whether it is during the day or at night.”
The enforcement campaign for “Click It or Ticket” began on May 23, 2011 and concludes June 5, 2011.
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May 24, 2011
Carter County man enters plea to Solicitation to 1st Degree Murder.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Benjamin T. Barrick, age 41, formerly of 2613 Bob Little Road, Elizabethton, entered a Best Interest Plea to a charge of: Solicitation to Commit First Degree Murder, today in Washington County Criminal Court.
Barrick was arrested on August 26, 2010, after an investigation into a complaint that Barrick had hired a Carter County man on or about the 22nd of August 2010 to kill a Washington County resident. The solicitation occurred on South Roan Street in Washington County, TN. The day following the solicitation, Barrick provided the intended “hitman” with a .22 caliber pistol and .22lr ammunition which were to be used in the slaying.
Carter County Sheriff’s Office quickly became aware of the situation after an individual came forward. Washington and Carter County Sheriff’s Offices working closely with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted a tiring investigation into the matter, completing recorded telephone calls to Barrick and a number of interviews with the intended victim and witnesses.
Officers attempted to arrest Barrick at an apartment in Elizabethton, but Barrick eluded arrest. He was arrested the following day and was found with a cache of outdoor items with which he could have evaded arrest for a prolonged period of time in the outdoors. Items such as a Night vision device, survival equipment, binoculars, personal hygiene items, camouflage clothing, etc.
Barrack’s bond was set at $100,000 and he was incarcerated in the Washington County Detention while his case went through Washington County Session court, Washington County Grand Jury and into Criminal Court.
Barrick entered a Best Interest plea to 1 count of Solicitation to Commit 1st Degree Murder and was sentenced to 15 years of probation (5 years Supervised and 10 years Unsupervised).
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April 27, 2011
Three arrested on drug charges.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Deputy's received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle in the 3600 block area of Old State Route 34, Limestone; an area plagued with thefts from homes and a cemetery. The vehicle was located a short time later at a nearby convenience store.
Officers approached the occupants to inquire about possible criminal activity in the area and after a brief field investigation, officers located 324 grams of marijuana and 2 grams of cocaine inside the suspicious vehicle. The occupants were identified as James Swinehart, age 44, 2506 Mckinley Road; Vicki Swinehart, age 49, 2506 Mckinley Road; and Darnelle Cook, age 33, 1410 Colony Park Drive. All three were charged with Possession of schedule VI for resale, and simple possession of schedule II.
Bond for the trio was set at $20,000 each and arraignment is scheduled for today.
The investigation is continuing and more charges are possible.
 
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April 26, 2011
Large quantity of drugs and illegal guns lands 2 Limestone Residents in the slammer.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Officers arrested Jonathan B Aloisio, age 35, 3661 Old State Route 34, Limestone; and Toni M Aloisio, age 40, after locating a large quantity of drugs and firearms inside their home.
Officers went to 3661 Old State Route 34 to complete a follow up investigation. Upon entering the home officers were overwhelmed by the odor of Marijuana.
Officers completed a search of the home locating approximately 285 marijuana plants, an elaborate indoor grow operation including 6 large indoor grow lights, plant food and fertilizers, humidity gauges, Carbon Dioxide; approximately 6 pound of processed marijuana, ¾ pounds of Psychedelic mushrooms, 3 ounces of powdered cocaine, 6 handguns, 4 rifles, and 3 sawed off shotguns.
Toni Aloisio was charged with Possession of Schedules I, II and VI for Resale, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Aggravated Child Abuse and Child Neglect or Endangerment and Maintaining a Dwelling where controlled substances are used and sold. Her bond was set at $71,000. She is scheduled for arraignment on the 27th of April 2011.
Jonathan Aloisio was charged with Possession of Schedules I, II, and VI for Resale, Possession of Prohibited Weapons, Unlawful Possession of Firearms, Possession of Firearms in the Commission of a Dangerous Felony, Aggravated Child Abuse and Child Neglect or Endangerment, Maintaining a Dwelling Where Controlled Substances are Used and Sold. His bond was set at $221,000. His arraignment is scheduled for 27 April 2011.
The Aliosio's 3 children were removed from the home by the Department of Children Services.
The street value of the drugs is placed at approximately $500,000 due to the high THC content of the marijuana. The marijuana was selling for approximately $4000 per pound.
 
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April 8, 2011
A Telford, TN man being held in the Washington County Detention Center, has died.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Jesse Hester, age 46, of 176 Al Sliger Road, Telford, TN died yesterday. Mr. Hester was being held in the Detention Center on rape charges.
The investigation has been turned over to the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. There is no foul play suspected at this time.
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April 8, 2011
Armed Robbery of Gray man lands 4 in custody.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County officers received a report of an armed Robbery of an individual, which occurred in the Gray area late Wednesday. The victim advised 2 offenders had taken him to the scene in a red GMC pickup and stopped. 2 additional offenders then came out of the bed of the truck, one armed with a high powered, bolt action rifle. The offenders took 2 different types of medication from the victim at gunpoint.
Investigators responded to the scene of the robbery and quickly began developed leads on the case. Numerous residences were checked and vehicles were scrutinized as Investigators and Deputies searched for the offenders. Two of the offenders were taken into custody late Wednesday, those were:
Amber L O'Berry, age 20, 126 Blazerview Rd, Gray; and a 17 year old male juvenile. O'Berry was charged with Criminal Responsibility for the conduct of another and Violation of Probation, her bond was set at $50,000. She is currently incarcerated in the Washington County Detention Center awaiting a preliminary hearing.
The 17 year old juvenile was charged with Aggravated Robbery, his bond was set at $10,000 cash bond. He was taken to the Upper East Tennessee Regional Juvenile Detention Center where is he is still being held.
On Thursday Investigators charged 2 additional 17 years old juveniles on the case, with Criminal Responsibility for the Conduct of Another in reference to assisting/ aiding in the Armed Robbery. Both were taken to the Upper East Tennessee Regional Juvenile Detention Center in Johnson City where they are being held on $1500 cash bonds.
Investigators located the red GMC pickup used in the robbery, which was registered to a family member of one of the male juveniles.
The juveniles will be arraigned today in Juvenile Court.
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April 6, 2011
Guns, Drugs and Stolen Property equal 15 ½ years in Federal Prison for Jonesborough man.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal; Robert Alan Stoneman, age 38, 488 Tavern Hill Road, Jonesborough; was sentenced to 188 month in Federal Prison late Monday, Stoneman will also have to complete 5 years of supervised release upon his release.
Stoneman's recent troubles began in February 2010 when Washington County Sheriff's Office Investigators, Drug Enforcement Administration Agents, and Officers from the State of Tennessee Board of Probation and Parole went to his home to conduct a follow up investigation. Inside Stoneman's home officers located a .22 caliber rifle, a stolen .45 caliber handgun, 1/2 pound of marijuana, digital scales and other items used in the packaging and resale of Marijuana, and approximately $210 cash, 2 Harley Davidson Motorcycles with altered Vehicle Identification Numbers. While there, Stoneman was taken into custody on charges of Violation of Parole.
Stoneman is a convicted felon prohibited from possessing firearms. A firearms case against Stoneman was presented to the United States District Attorney's Office- Eastern District of Tennessee for consideration.
Stoneman was indicted in U.S. Federal Court-Eastern District of Tennessee (Greenville) by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives on 2 counts of Possession of Firearms while being a Convicted Felon, Possession of Firearms in the Furtherance of a Drug Crime and Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.
In October 2010, Stoneman entered a plea of guilty to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
United States Assistant District Attorney Robert Reeves represented the Government in Federal Court proceedings.
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March 23, 2011
Deputies arrest two and dismantle a Methamphetamine Lab in Gray.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, at about 3:15pm, Deputies received a call from a property owner on Possum Hollow Road that some subjects living behind his mobile home were ( cooking meth. ). Upon Deputies arrival, two subjects ran from the scene and were immediately apprehended and identified. The lab was found in an outbuilding behind the mobile home and subsequently dismantled. Arrested were Brandon C. Holder age 28 418 Possum Hollow Rd. Gray and Edward G. Cato age 42 116 Morning Star Rd. Church Hill Tn. Both were charged with Initiating Process to Manufacture Methamphetamine, Immediate Precursor to Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs for Resale, Resisting Arrest and Evading Arrest. Both will be arraigned in Sessions Court on March 24, 2011.
 
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March 7, 2011
Washington County Detention Officer jailed on felony charges.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Officer Nicholas D. Kent, age 30 of 1307 Ballard Drive Johnson City was arrested by the Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigation Division this morning following an investigation in reference to a cell phone being located in an inmate pod.
Kent is charged with Introduction of Contraband into a Penal Facility which is a Class C Felony. A bond of $5000.00 has been set with an arraignment scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Tuesday.
In addition three inmates were also charged, Benjamin Fair age 28 of 315 Berkley Court Johnson City, Richard Workman, age 25 of 305 Delaware St. Johnson City and David W. Smith, age 32 of 360 Blankenship Lane Erwin were all charged with Introduction of Contraband into a Penal Facility and Vandalism, they each remain in jail on a $6000.00 bond with an arraignment scheduled for Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.
 
 
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February, 17,2011
Meth components found in Washington County.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Deputies responded to the 100 block of John Garst road for a suspicious package. Upon their arrival, a back pack was located next to the roadway which contained ingredients to manufacture methamphetamine. Deputies were assisted by the Methamphetamine Task Force in the cleanup and an investigation is continuing with several leads to investigate.
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February 3, 2011
Federal Weapons Violation lands Limestone man in Federal Prison.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Marc Kristopher Skeen; age 26; 960 Washington College Station Road, Limestone was sentenced to 63 months (5 years 3 months) yesterday in United States Federal Court- Eastern District of Tennessee located in Greenville, TN.
Skeen was found Guilty by a Jury of his peers after a trial on charges of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon in May 2010, in United States Federal Court.
Skeen's troubles began on September 25, 2009 when Skeen was involved in a Domestic Altercation at his home. During the incident Skeen used a handgun to fire shots toward a victim. Skeen was arrested, being charged at that time with Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm by a convicted Felon, in State court. That case was presented to the United States Federal Court-Eastern District of Tennessee for consideration and was subsequently transferred over for federal prosecution.
An indictment was obtained in Federal Court after the facts of the case were presented to a Federal Grand Jury by Washington County Investigators.
Skeen was taken into custody without incident after Investigators observed him leaving his residence in March 2010.
Skeen will be required to serve his sentence in full and upon release from Federal Prison will have to complete 3 years of Supervised Release.
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January 25, 2011
Two men face sexual related charges.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Investigators have arrested two men following the conclusion of 2 separate investigations into allegations of a sexual nature. Those men are:
Estel L Kiser, age 62, 1528 Broad Street, Elizabethton; was charged with Sexual Battery by an Authority Figure following an investigation into allegations of inappropriate contact with a student at a Washington County High School. Investigators worked together with members of the Washington County School Board to complete the investigation as quickly as possible with the safety of the students/ victims in mind. Kiser's bond was set at $15,000.
Patrick L Ingle, age 36, 1009 Long Street, Johnson City; was charged with 2 counts of Aggravated Sexual Exploitation of a Minor. This investigation involves the Possession and Distribution of 25 or more images of Child Pornography. This investigation was a result of a cooperative effort between the Washington County Sheriff's Office, the Department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Ingles' bond was set at $ 50,000.
Both men are scheduled for arraignment at the Next Term of Washington County Criminal Court.
 
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January 25, 2011
Another person on the Washington County Sheriff's Office Most Wanted List has been arrested..
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Joshua Gergish age 28 was arrested January 25, 2011 at approximately 12:39 pm..
Support Services Officers with Washington County Sheriff's Office, acting on a tip from an anonymous source, apprehended Gergish at an address in Johnson City. The tip resulted from him being featured on the WJHL Mondays Most Wanted last night.
Gergish is scheduled to appear in Washington County Sessions Court on January 26, 2011 at 9:30am to be arraigned on the charges of Failure to Appear on Driving on Revoked License 2 counts. His appearance on the charge Violation of Probation will be set by the Criminal Court Clerk's office for a later date.
For further information Contact Captain Larry Denny at 423-788-1414
Check out our MOST WANTED at www.wcso.net.
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January 25, 2011
Another person on the Washington County Sheriff's Office Most Wanted List has been arrested..
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Cody Allen Cole age 21 was arrested Jan 24, 2011 at approximately 8:46 pm. Kingsport Police Officers contacted the Washington County Sheriff’s Office to confirm information on Cole due to them receiving a tip from an anonymous source that had seen him featured on the WJHL’s Mondays Most Wanted. Washington County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that they had received the same tip. Officers from the Kingsport Police Department apprehended Cole and then turned him over to deputies from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office. Cole had only been featured hours prior to his arrest on the “WJHL Mondays Most Wanted” that night.
Cole had been charged with Aggravated Robbery and had an outstanding Violation of Probation Warrant due to prior charges of 3 counts of Vandalism. Cole is scheduled to appear in Washington County Sessions Court to be arraigned on the charge of Violation of Probation on 25 Jan 2011 at 10:30 am. Cole’s appearance date for the charges of Aggravated Robbery will be set by the Criminal Court Clerk’s office for a later date.
For more information on Washington County Sheriff’s Office visit our website at http://www.wcso.net/Divisions/mostwanted.html or call 423-788-1414.
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January 21, 2011
One of Washington County’s Most Wanted caught in Rutherfordton North Carolina.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Rutherfordton City Police Department in North Carolina
arrested Kevin James Hamby, 49 of 184 North Meriden Street, Rutherfordton North Carolina.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division acquired a telephone number of the defendant from the Tennessee Fusion Center. Investigators were able to locate the defendant’s address from the telephone number and worked with the Rutherfordton City Police Department who apprehended the defendant without incident.
Mr. Hamby was arrested for Unlawful Possession of a Weapon. Mr. Hamby is a convicted Felon and was in possession of 19 various types of firearms.
Ms. Hamby is being held in the Rutherford County Detention Center in North Carolina with a Fugitive from Justice Warrant pending Extradition.
The court date in Washington County will be set after Extradition is completed.
Kevin James Hamby had absconded and has been wanted since March 11, 2009
For more information on Washington County Sheriff’s Office visit our website at http://www.wcso.net/Divisions/mostwanted.html or call 423-788-1414.
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January 4, 2011
One of Washington County’s Most Wanted caught in Johnson City.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Washington County Deputies arrested
Diane Lynn Fagans, 49 of 1105 Johnson Avenue Johnson City.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous tip and responded to
1105 Johnson Avenue and arrested Ms. Fagans without incident.
Ms. Fagans was arrested for two Violations of Probation out of Washington County Criminal Court, one Violation of Probation out of Washington County Sessions court and a Failure to Appear for Prostitution.
Ms. Fagans is being held in the Washington County Detention Center without bond.
The court date is set for 01/05/2011 at 9:00am on the Sessions Court Violation of Probation and Failure to Appear for Prostitution. The court date on the two Criminal Court Violation of Probation’s will be heard at the next term.
Diane Lynn Fagans had absconded and has been wanted since April 29, 2007.
For more information on Washington County Sheriff’s Office visit our website at http://www.wcso.net/Divisions/mostwanted.html or call 423-788-1414.
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December 17, 2010
Master Operator Insignia awarded for Deputies’ service and dedication.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, 7 Special Weapons and Tactics Team operators were awarded the prestigious Master Operator Insignia. The insignia is awarded to SWAT team members who have fulfilled the following requirements:
10 years as an S.W.A.T. team operator
Completion of Basic and Advanced S.W.A.T. or Sniper school
Pass Physical Fitness Exam
Score 95% or better on all weapons qualifications
No disciplinary action
Approval of SWAT chain of command
Completion of 40 or more SWAT callouts
The badges were awarded to the following operators:
Captain Bryan Horton
Lieutenant Eddie Graybeal
Lieutenant Doug Gregg
Sergeant David Chambers
Investigator Mike Adams
Dr. Vince Pinyard
Patrolman Kevin Sanders
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December 15, 2010
Last In-Custody, “Operation Talisman” Drug Dealer, sentenced, entire organization to serve 187 years in Federal Prison.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Jonathan Shell, age 24, previously of 1216 Huffine Rd # 4, Johnson City; was sentenced to 90 months in Federal Prison on Friday the 10th of December 2010. Shell was a co-conspirator in the “Operation Talisman” case in which 33 individuals were indicted. Charges against 2 individuals were dismissed, 2 were acquitted at trial, 1 was murdered in Houston Texas and 2 are still outstanding (believed to be in Mexico). The following are sentences for the individuals who pled guilty rather than face a trial.
- Francisco Urbina – sentenced to 120 months
- Jaimes Esquivel-Lausin – sentenced to 120 months
- Ramon Cervantes-Gomez – sentenced to 120 months
- Raymundo Miller-Guerra – Murdered in Houston, TX
- Francisco Lozano – sentenced to 46 months
- Jose Luis Colunga – sentenced to 240 months
- Hector Aceves-Cruz – sentenced to 72 months
- Juan Jose Colunga – sentenced to 120 months
- Juan Javier Colunga – sentenced to 78 months
- Hector Cigarroa – sentenced to probation
- Richard Wards – sentenced to 84 months
- Jeremy Bennett – sentenced to 72 months
- Jonathon Shell – sentenced to 90 months
- Rosa Colunga – sentenced to probation
- Matt Odom – sentenced to 72 months
- Michael Osborne – sentenced to 54 months
- Jeff Fair – sentenced to 120 months
- Jeff Bailey – sentenced to 57 months
- Melody Colunga Bailey – sentenced to 42 months
- Kelly Leonard – sentenced to 6 months
- Benjamin Collin Brooks – sentenced to 37 months
- Derrick Carson – sentenced to probation
The following individuals were found Guilty after a 1 month long trial and were sentenced as follows:
- Jesus Huerta – sentenced to 192 months
- Wiley E. Barnett – sentenced to 240 months
- Carlos Hernandez – sentenced to 72 months
- Justin Blake-Saldivar – sentenced to 60 months
- Javier Flores-Delacruz – sentenced to 121 months
The 2 co-conspirators listed below are wanted fugitives, anyone with information on their whereabouts are asked to contact the Washington County Sheriff’s Office at 423-788-1414 or your local U.S. Marshal’s office.
- Guadalupe Avendano-Ruiz –
- Victor Hugo Vizcarra-Lopez –
The total of all prison sentences handed down to this point equals 2235 months or 187 years in Federal prison.
All prison time will be served in various Federal Prisons, usually (but not always) dependant on the defendant’s family. 100% of the Prison time will have to be served before a defendant will be released. All defendants will have to serve a certain amount of time on supervised release after their release.
Sheriff Graybeal would like to thank agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecutors from the United States Attorney’s Office for the long hours of work they put into this case. If not for the cooperative efforts of these agencies this case would have never came to fruition. Sheriff Graybeal would also like to thank all the other state and local agencies as well as private citizens who assisted in this case either by providing manpower or information.
Assistant United States Attorneys Caryn Hebets and Greg Bowman represented the Government at trial.
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December 15, 2010
Gray Marijuana Grower faces charges in United States Federal Court.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Bobby L. Greene, age 36, previously of 173 Circle Drive; was arrested today on a Federal Indictment charging him with: Manufacture of Marijuana, Possession of Firearms by Unlawful Drug User and Possession of a Firearm in the Furtherance of a Drug Crime.
Greene's problems began after investigators followed up on information of drug activity and discovered Marijuana plants growing at Greene's home, along with numerous firearms, and a safe containing approximately 1 ounce of powdered cocaine, ½ ounce of Crack Cocaine, and over 1 pound of processed marijuana.
Investigators seized over $700 cash and a vehicle from Greene.
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December 8, 2010
Early morning crash sends one man to the hospital and another to jail.
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According to Sheriff Ed Graybeal, Deputies responded to a crash with injuries on the Kingsport High-way around 1:15 am on Wednesday the 8th of December. Benjamin S. Carder age 27 of 124 Stratton Dr., Kingsport, TN. was driving a Volkswagen Jetta north on the Kingsport High-way 36 near the Sullivan County line. Mr. Carder crossed the center line going into the south bound lane hitting a BMW head-on. The BMW was driven by Thomas A. Watts age 22 of 418 Roller St., Kingsport, TN. Mr. Thomas was taken to the Johnson City Medical Center and is listed in stable condition.
Benjamin S. Carder was taken into custody and transported to the Washington County Detention Center. Benjamin S. Carder was charged with DUI 2nd and Vehicular Assault and is being held on a eleven thousand dollar bond. Mr. Carder is set for arraignment in Jonesborough Sessions Court at 9:00am on the 8th of December 2010.
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